Kate Harper had another interesting article a while back. For those who think greeting cards are becoming a thing of the past, read this and check out the links. Her newsletter read:

I recently listened to an excellent interview on Kindle Chronicles podcast, with Neil Strandberg, manager of operations at Denver’s renowned Tattered Cover Book Store, about his experience of the e-book revolution.

He made an interesting statement:
In the most financially successful bookstores, the fastest growing inventory now is not a book, but sideline items (includes cards and gifts) . They are now the most profitable part of the business.

I was surprised to hear this.

Perhaps the gift industry is keeping the bookstore industry afloat?

Check out the audio interview online: http://www.thekindlechronicles.com/2011/02/11/tkc-134-neil-strandberg/

You can also subscribe the podcast on itunes.

~ Kate Harper Designs www.kateharperdesigns.com

"Been thinkin' of ya . . .How are ya? . . Whatcha been up to?" 5.5"x 4.25" Greeting Card, Blank Inside

"It's Here ... It's Here ... Spring is Finally Here!" 5"x7" Greeting Card, Blank Inside

Throughout the United States the Race for The Cure has begun. This weekend some dear friends are running/walking in support of the Susan G. Komen Foundation in Indianapolis, Indiana. My friends are survivors and dedicated to supporting this cause.  So many of our lives have been touched by someone suffering from and/or someone who has passed away from this dreadful disease. As difficult as these times are for so many, financially, my friends have worked diligently and surpassed their goals for this year. I am in awe of their dedications and enthusiasm. If you feel so inclined click here Susan G. Komen to donate. I did what seems like such a small part in the scheme of things but every bit helps.

My friends also asked if I had designed more Breast Cancer Awareness cards. I love their spunky spirits! and am honored to be asked. Here are two designed for 2011. 10% of the sales of these cards  go to the Susan G. Komen Foundation.

Breast Cancer Awareness, #291

Breast Cancer Awareness, 292

Currently my website is being redesigned. If you have any problems with navigating or ordering please email me at: mickey@artisticvoyage.com Thank you for your patience.

Giving someone the courtesy of a thank you note after having dinner at their home is always appreciated. Here is an idea of what you might say.

“Dear  . . .

Dinner was absolutely perfect. Your gourmet meal was incredibly delicious and you attention to detail is unsurpassed. The entire evening was divine.

Thank you for inviting us.”

Here is a fine note card perfect for just such an occasion. It’s understated, yet sophisticated.

#136, 5.5" x 4.25", Shadowed Tulip, Box of 8/$15 or Box or 16/$25

In a recent newsletter from art coach, Alyson Stanfield, she referenced a recent article on hand written cards http://snipurl.com/u2inh Whether you are sending a card to a friend or business associate Alyson suggests using your postal system! Sending stuff in the regular mail will help you stand out. Personally writing a note will impress them even more.  You’ll be diversifying your delivery and content while keeping your name in front of people.

© 2010 Alyson B. Stanfield. Alyson takes the mystery out of marketing your art and making more money as an artist. Visit http://www.ArtBizCoach.com to get articles just like this one delivered to your inbox.

My son works at the post office in Indiana, he will appreciate it too!

Another new decade is in the making and I want to wish you a magical 2010 full of love, joy, good health, prosperity and glorious new beginnings. I celebrate you and all that you do.

This happy little Bumble Bee was a delight to create, it still makes me smile. He seems to be saying, “Yippee!” but he can actually say anything you wish when ordering personalized cards from my website. Some examples might be “Bee Happy”, “Bee Courageous”, “Bee Patient”, “Bee Kind”, etc. Can you think of others?

#123 Bee Happy Bumble Bee Card, 5.5"x4.25", Box of eight cards/$15 or Box of 20/$25

What a fun gift idea! As well as greeting cards this little character is also available in framble prints. If you have a problem ordering from my website please feel free to email me at: mickey@artisticvoyage.com  and I will personally take care of it for you.